City Guide Filming in Cicero, IL
Production Permit Fees
- Permit Application Fee: $25
- Permit Fee: $70-$200 per hour
Minimum Insurance
- $1 million
Additional Permits
Discounts
About Cicero
Although it has a fairly small population, the town of Cicero is part of Cook County in Illinois and is also a suburb of Chicago. The town is inhabited by roughly 85,000 residents and contrasts perfectly with the bigger cities and metroplexes of the state, such as the aforementioned Chicago. As for the name of the town, you have a certain statesman and a gifted orator from Roman history named Marcus Tullius Cicero to thank – not for being associated with the settlement itself but only for inspiring its name. However, the first name attributed to the town was Hawthorne until it was changed. Many local attractions and cultural hubs have attracted the attention of tourists. The Polish-themed St. Mary of Czestochowa, which is the church that housed the wedding of Al Capone's sister in 1930, is a highlight. J. Sterling Morton High School, which dates back to 1894, Morton East High School's Chodl Auditorium, which dates back to 1924 and is also part of the National Register of Historic Places, and the Hawthorne Race Course are all notable locations here.
Simply put, despite the low population density and a less busy atmosphere, there is much to be loved about and enjoyed in the city. And production crews have known this for years. Titles like The Dark Knight, A Nightmare on Elm Street (Remake), Wayne's World, Cicero March, Driven, Welcome Back to the Barrio, Main Street Eagle, Sub Life, El Evangelista, York Peppermint Saloon, Uncle Buck, and The Blues Brothers were partly filmed here. Many of these went on to earn critical acclaim. If you're reading this, you're probably thinking of heading to town and getting started with your project here, but let's just take a couple of minutes to go through the filming guidelines in Cicero to understand the basic requirements for filmmakers here and how you can prepare for what awaits you.
When you do come to town and are looking for the most suitable filming venues in Cicero, you won’t be disappointed by the listings at Giggster. We list the best options for filmmakers to choose from while enjoying complete payment protection.
Do I Need a Filming Permit in Cicero?
Yes. Film production crews must get a filming permit before they can start filming in public in Cicero. Other than this, a general film permit is also needed when a film production team requires public space for parking, assistance from local fire and police departments, or access to city-owned properties for filming. These exceptions apply even if you are not filming in public.
As per the filming guidelines in Cicero, there are also further exceptions to this rule. For instance, a food vlogger or a traveling photographer may not always require a permit for their projects, but if you have a sizeable crew and wish to film/photograph in public, it’s best to reach out to the Cicero Special Events Office for specific guidance. Also note that you may have to get additional permits, such as:
Pyrotechnics Permit – this permit is needed when a film production team wishes to use gunfire, explosives, fireworks, or any other fire-based special effect for their film. This must be done under the guidance and supervision of the local fire department.
Animal Control Permit – this permit is needed when your film project involves animals that can cause any property damage or injury to someone. Reach out to the animal control department for the permit and assistance with restraining the said animals, i.e., dogs, cats, and horses.
Aircraft Usage Permit – this permit is issued by the local aviation authority after the submission of $5 million liability insurance bonds for aviation liability. You’ll need the permit to be able to use helicopters/airplanes in the movie.
Drone Filming Permit – this permit is also issued by the local aviation authority, and the insurance requirement, in this case, is $2 million. You'll need to get this permit before you can film with camera drones in public (you won't need this permit if you're filming indoors only).
Student/Non-Commercial Filming Permit – all students working on film projects or non-commercial film production crews can get discounted rates for their filming permits after verification of their status.
Permit Management in Cicero
Cicero Special Events Office
There aren’t many hurdles in getting filming permits in Cicero – it’s a small town, so you can expect much fewer red-tape boundary issues. But there is a mechanism in place, headed by the Cicero Special Events Office, which is part of the Town President’s Office. You can reach out to the office at 708-656-3600 (extension: 258) or send a message via the town’s official website.
Once you’re in touch with the Special Events Office and have been assigned a film manager for your project (the person dealing with your case), you can get your permit application form either in person or via email. The rest is straightforward, you fill in all the details, attach the proof of insurance, get additional approval from the local police and fire departments, if needed, and then submit the application at least a week before the start of your filming schedule.
In some cases, a film permit may not be needed at all. For instance, if you're filming on private property and don't require any assistance from city officials, you won't have to apply for a permit. But if you're either seeking access to a public spot for filming, a public parking space for your production vehicles, or help from the local departments, then a permit will be needed.
You’ll have to liaise with the other local departments on your own. The Special Events Office will not do that for you – but no worries, their contact information is available online. But if you need any specific guidance or can't find a way to contact a certain department, you can count on the Special Events Office to do so for you.
Filming permits for picnic venues and nature preserves are issued by the Department of Forest Preserves of Cook County – we’ll discuss their permit application process in the special requirements section.
What Insurance Do I Need in Cicero?
The production insurance requirements in Cicero are not standard but instead depend on the scale of the production activities, the level of perceived risk associated with the filming activities, the type of activities involved, and other similar factors. For example, if you plan to use elaborate stunts, drones, or aircraft, your risk will be higher, and so will your insurance requirements.
You’ll have to get insurance coverage without exception because the producer is responsible for any compensation/reimbursements to be paid in the event of an accident. And by accident, we don’t mean to restrict the definition to car crashes. It can be anything from a minor trip-and-fall to a stunt gone wrong. Your insurance coverage will ensure that in case such an incident does happen, you have the resources to pay for any losses sustained by the victim. As mentioned earlier, the insurance requirements for filmmakers in Cicero are not set in stone, but here’s a brief rundown of the basic requirements applicable in most cases:
If you can’t meet any of these requirements, you’ll need to explain in writing why you can’t meet the requirement to the Office. They will determine if the shoot can go ahead without the necessary insurance.
Note that these requirements are minimum requirements. Larger and more complex shoots may require additional insurance which will be determined by the Office.
What Kind of Filming Locations Are Available in Cicero?
Let’s then take a look at the variety of filming destinations the city has to offer to see why your efforts to get a film permit and insurance are worth it. Also, please note again that if you’re filming exclusively on private premises with no involvement from the local departments, then no permit is needed. However, the permission of the property owner is mandatory.
There are several fully-equipped and ready-to-use filming studios in the city, such as the Unique Film Studio And Sound Stage, Multi-Set Prop Studio, Mid-Century Modern Creative Production Studio, Natural Light Sunset Loft Photo Studio, and Modern Industrial Film Studio. All of these are fully decorated, and some of them are even themed to give a very specific touch, be it industrial, modern, or nature-inspired.
But if you're looking for something beyond the regular studio spaces, then the Urban Decay Atrium might be for you. It is a unique space that artistically presents decay and aging. The West Town Gallery contrasts perfectly with this derelict location, being a lively interior decorated with impressive and eye-catching artwork with perfect color schemes and lighting, providing an ideal background setting for your film.
Another excellent option is the Colorful River West Creative Space, which, as the name suggests, offers a panorama of shades and contrasts that offers a unique atmosphere for filming. Other equally impressive filming spaces offering a variety of colors, perfect lighting, and premium furnishing include the Creative Multi-Production Set, Vintage Loft, and Modern Design Studio Loft.
Venues like the Spacious Office Lobby and Office Kitchen Space offer a more formal tone, whereas the likes of the Intimate Bar offer the exact opposite feeling – completely casual. But if you need something that feels like home, then the Cozy Apartment, Glass House, and similar venues will be perfect for you.
Special Requirements in Cicero
Filming In Local School Districts
The local school districts, such as the Cicero School District 99 and the Cicero Public School District, can be approached with a proposal to film on their premises. But firstly, you should understand that the school reserves the rights to its premises. Although approval is not guaranteed, you should still follow these steps to maximize your chances:
Approach the school management with a brief proposal and a request to meet in person for further discussion.
Once you’ve got an appointment (plan it at least a month in advance), discuss the specifics of your script and the parts they need to know.
Let them know about your schedule.
It's best to schedule your shoot during vacations, weekends, summer holidays, etc.
If needed, adjust the schedule as per the school’s availability.
Get insured for commercial general liability ($1 million) and worker’s compensation.
Discuss the rental/fees for using the school premises.
Filming In Cicero Community Park
The Cicero Community Park offers a unique sensation of relaxation and closeness to nature. It is laden with walking paths and also features a skating rink. Other than welcoming locals seeking a respite from their busy daily lives, the park also houses special events like movie nights, concerts, and carnivals. You can reach out to the park management at 708-656-3600 to reserve a section of the park for your filming activities. General liability insurance coverage of $1 million is necessary, plus you’ll also need to hire a park management official to monitor the shoot.
Filming In Picnic Groves Of Cook County
The Department of Forest Preserves of Cook County manages around 300 picnic groves in the area, you can apply for an outdoor event permit online on their website and start filming as per your schedule after approval of your application. Check out their fee structure for your reference.
Filming In State Parks Near Cicero, IL
State parks in the vicinity of Cicero, such as the Green River State Fish and Wildlife Area, Harrington Beach State Park, and Big Foot Beach State Park, are managed by The Illinois Department of Natural Resources. To get a permit to film in these parks, you need to get in touch with them and the concerned park management, agree to comply with all park rules, pay all fees, and carry general liability insurance coverage of $1 million (if required). Plus, you may have to hire a park official to monitor the production efforts and as a guide.
Filming With Camera Drones
If you need a camera drone for some segments of your project, make sure you get the permit for it, acquire $2 million in UAS liability coverage, ensure the protection of people's privacy, and operate the drone as per FAA regulations.
What Does it Cost to Film in Cicero?
When filming in Cicero, other than the filming expenses, hiring costs, equipment costs, and site rentals, you will also have to contend with fees charged by the concerned authorities for any services rendered. As per the filming regulations in Cicero, the Special Events Office will send you an invoice for all the fees applicable in your case. Here is a brief rundown of what a permit usually costs, depending on the category: The permit application fee is $25 A still photography permit costs $70 per hour A student film permit is issued free of cost A low-budget film permit costs $125 per hour A commercial/television permit costs $150 per hour A feature film permit costs $200 per hour If you’re a non-resident, you may have to pay 10% extra for all fees applicable Other than these aforementioned fees, you'll also have to pay, either by the hour or as per quote, for the following services: Traffic control Hiring an on-set police officer Police equipment rental Fire safety inspection Hiring an on-set fire safety officer Parking signs Closing a lane, street, right of way, etc.
Additional Fees
If your production requires street parking for equipment trucks or other vehicles, you might need permits for parking in certain areas. Parking fees and permit costs will depend on the duration and location.
Geographical Jurisdiction of Cicero?
The total area occupied by the town is only 5.87 square miles, and all the filming laws in Cicero that we've discussed are only applicable to this geographical area. Cicero has clearly drawn boundaries. it runs between Western Avenue and Harlem Avenue from west to east and North Avenue to Pershing Road from north to south. But recently, the city of Chicago has annexed some of the areas that were formerly part of Cicero.
Outreach in Cicero
You’re required, as per the filming laws in Cicero, to send notifications to the affected residents before you start filming in the area. Ideally, the notification should be sent at least two business days in advance, but it would be best if you do it earlier than that. In the letters, you must mention your production’s contact information, details of your filming schedule, details of the filming activities, and any other pertinent information. Also, share the draft with the Special Events Office before posting it to the neighborhood residents.
Community Management in Cicero
You should expect a suburban feeling from the community at Cicero. Couple this up with a cooperative administrative framework, and you’ve got yourself a perfect situation. We have already seen that the filming regulations in Cicero don’t put much stress on the shoulders of filmmakers, and having a cooperative local community that welcomes film production crews (as has been the case with earlier teams as well) on top of this is a recipe for a successful film production.
Conclusion
Much like Marcus Tullius Cicero, the town named after him, though far away from his original homeland, is worthy of praise and recognition for its uniqueness and versatility. You will come across historical landmarks, high-tech buildings, and everything in between. The town may appear dull in comparison with bigger metropolitan centers such as Chicago, Springfield, and Rockford, but having a small population and a less busy atmosphere is a unique perk that sets it apart from the concrete jungles of urbanization. You're also free to explore iconic and exclusive filming destinations in the area, some generic and others themed specifically, both indoors and outdoors. In short, you'll come across everything that a filmmaker can ask for.
The filming guidelines in Cicero are simple and don’t involve much hassle on your part, plus the local authorities are fully cooperative with film productions. This has been the case with previous teams working on cinematic masterpieces like The Dark Knight and A Nightmare on Elm Street (Remake). Save for the insurance requirements, you won't come across any serious challenges in acquiring your filming permit, and if you're filming on private premises, you won't need a permit at all.
Giggster is the perfect collaborative partner for all your filming venue needs – we have numerous in-demand properties in various categories for rent in the area and beyond to help you find the perfect filming locations for every shot. Don’t hesitate to scroll through our listings, as you’ll find accurate information, honest reviews, visual insights, and of course, complete payment protection.